Airbus and MTU Aero Engines are teaming up to form a joint venture to develop and commercialize a fully electric hydrogen fuel cell engine.

Airbus said Tuesday the planned collaboration aims to speed up the technology development, design, testing and certification of a propulsion system for a commercial aircraft based on a hydrogen fuel cell.

Under their nonbinding agreement, the two European companies plan to pool their respective technology and expertise, with Airbus bringing its experience with commercial aircraft, fuel-cell propulsion and liquid hydrogen as MTU supplies its knowledge about fuel-cell technology development as well as engine design, integration and maintenance.

"We are establishing a European powerhouse capable of transforming advanced research into industrialised, certifiable electric propulsion systems. This new company will help secure strategic sovereignty in the next generation of aviation technologies," said Bruno Fichefeux, head of future programs at Airbus.

The joint venture is expected to start operations next year, and will be supported by various engineering and manufacturing teams from both companies, Airbus said.

Write to Kelly Cloonan at kelly.cloonan@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

July 07, 2026 12:29 ET (16:29 GMT)

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